Education Minister Clarifies ASUU Is Not On Strike, Urges Public to Disregard False Reports

The Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Olatunji Alausa CON, has confirmed that the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) is not on strike.

Speaking in Abuja, Dr. Alausa reaffirmed the Federal Government’s dedication to maintaining industrial peace across federal tertiary institutions.

Addressing concerns over potential disruptions to the academic calendar, the Minister credited the consistent stability in public universities over the last two years to sustained dialogue, mutual respect, and proactive government engagement with both academic and non-academic unions.

“It is not by coincidence that Nigerian public tertiary institutions have remained open and stable for the past two years — something that has not happened in decades,” he stated.

Dr. Alausa explained that the Federal Government is addressing union demands in phases, ensuring steady and respectful progress. He added that this approach is in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which places a strong focus on improving human capital and prioritizing the welfare of education workers.

“Our children are the heartbeat of the nation, and their uninterrupted education is non-negotiable,” the Minister declared. He assured the public of the government’s continued collaboration with unions to ensure universities remain open and academic calendars stay on course.

In conclusion, Dr. Alausa called on Nigerians to ignore rumors suggesting ASUU is on strike, stressing that the prevailing academic stability is a collective achievement that must be protected.

The clarification was issued through the Ministry’s press office, led by Director Boriowo Folasade, to boost public confidence in the sector and counter false narratives that could undermine current progress.